Transcript

The Kiribati Government's Foreign Investment Commission is still considering Mr Bakov's proposal and a decision is expected by March.

PAUL MEA: I think it would be good because tourism is a source of income for the country but it must be done in respect to the population and our culture also.

AMELIA LANGFORD: And do you think this Russian businessman is genuine?

PM: Well I don't know his background. I met him. We came together from Nadi [Fiji] to here, and they visited me with some members of [Parliament]. But I only know that they are going to develop it as a resort.

AL: What was he like when you met him?

PM: Well, he seemed to be good. He doesn't know much English. But the wife is the one - talking in English, translating what he said.

AL: It was important for him to visit the church?

PM: I think he knows that in Kiribati the churches are very influential with the Government. That's why he came to visit me.

AL: So you're happy about the deal as long as he is leasing the land and he does not buy the island?

PM: Well, more or less. Because that island there is doing nothing. It is better we get some money from it.

AL: And what do you think of the idea of building a resort?

PM: It's a good idea. I can't see anything wrong with it provided that it is controlled by the Government.

AL: What do you think of a Russian man having his own empire in Kiribati?

PM: Oh, we are not very keen on that. We are only keen that he develops a resort or some [other] development but not an empire.

AL: So you would prefer that he does not develop the empire at all?

PM: No, no, I hope the Government will not accept his proposal if he is thinking of an empire.

AL: Why do you say that?

PM: I think the empire has gone. It belongs to the past. It doesn't make any sense now. The time has gone. The empires have been replaced by democracy now, as we know, and Kiribati is a democratic country.

AL: Do you worry about wealthy international investors coming into Kiribati?

PM: Our preference and priority is our country. We don't like other people to come and control. We need our Government to develop our own country but not other people. We might get aid but the main agent ...is our Government and private sectors.

AL: Last question, do you feel confident that the Government will consider this proposal carefully?

PM: We're trying to meet our president. We are the council of churches and we are going to propose to meet our president and give our opinion.